It's not a split level. A bi-level is like a reverse ranch. The front door opens into a ground-floor that has a foyer, guest room, laundry room, and large den. Stairs off the foyer go up to the second floor, which has the main level - living room, kitchen, bath, 3 beds, 2 baths. That upper level walks out to the back yard.

Do you mean split level house? We are looking to do the same thing and would also be interested in experiences of others. We are considering the purchase of either a split level (side split not split foyer) or a ranch to pop up. I'm not sure if a bi-level is a split level.

OP here. We will do the kitchen, two upstairs bathrooms, replace the upstairs flooring, and possibly open up the ceiling in the living room/dining room/kitchen.

What renovations are we talking of? Start with getting a few estimates.

We have an offer in on a bi-level house in Fairfax City that we will want to do some significant renovations to before we move in - and of course we'll want to do them on a fast-ish timeline to minimize the amount of time we're carrying two mortgages. Is anyone aware of general contractors or design/build firms that have a strong track record with this style home?

And if you have this style home and did the kitchen/livingroom/dining room renovation and have tips/lessons learned to share, we'd love to hear them!


Thanks!